---
title: Keeping your README Fresh and Engaging
date: 2024-08-24
authors:
  - genaiscript
  - pelikhan
tags:
  - README
  - Open Source
  - Documentation
  - Maintenance
  - Engagement
canonical_url: https://microsoft.github.io/genaiscript/blog/README-maintenance
description: Optimize your project's front door with our script for an always
  up-to-date and engaging README.
cover:
  alt: A simplistic, pixelated image shows a computer screen displaying a brightly
    colored README.md file. Surrounding the computer are digital icons depicting
    various folders and files, symbolizing documentation and examples. The
    setting is a stylized corporate office, depicted with minimal geometric
    shapes and a 5-color palette, giving it a classic, retro aesthetic.
  image: ./readme-maintenance.png
excerpt: A strong `README` can define your project's success in the open source
  world. The GenAIScript used in the GenAI project is a great example of
  automating `README` maintenance by pulling the latest details from
  documentation and samples. This ensures your project's first impression stays
  both current and engaging. Curious about how to run it? The GenAIScript CLI
  makes it seamless. Keep your contributions visible, your documentation sharp,
  and your users informed.

---

import BlogNarration from "../../../components/BlogNarration.astro"

<BlogNarration />

In the world of open source, a well-maintained `README` file acts as the front door to your project. It's often the first thing potential users and contributors see, and as such, it should be both informative and inviting. Today, we're diving into the GenAIScript that helps keep the `README` of the [GenAI project](https://github.com/microsoft/genaiscript) as fresh as a daisy! 🌼 Check out the actual [script file](https://github.com/microsoft/genaiscript/blob/main/packages/sample/genaisrc/readme-updater.genai.mts) for the details.

> This blog post was co-authored with a [script](https://github.com/microsoft/genaiscript/blob/main/packages/sample/genaisrc/blogify-sample.genai.mts).

## The Intention Behind the Script

The script we're analyzing is a maintenance tool designed to import relevant information from documentation and samples into the `README` to enhance its appeal to users. It ensures that the `README` is not just a static file but a vibrant, updated document that accurately reflects the features and capabilities of GenAI.

## Line-by-Line Explanation

Let's walk through the script code as if we are crafting it from the ground up:

```ts
script({
    description:
        "Maintenance script for the README that imports information from the documentation and samples to make it more attractive to users.",
    tools: ["fs"],
})
```

Here, we're defining the script's metadata, including a description of its purpose and the tools it will utilize. The `fs` tool indicates file system operations will be involved.

```ts
def("README", { filename: "README.md" })
def("FEATURES", { filename: "docs/src/content/docs/index.mdx" })
```

These lines declare two important files: the `README` itself and a `FEATURES` file that contains information to be imported into the `README`.

```ts
$`You are an expert open source maintainer.
...
`
```

In this template literal, we're outlining the tasks for the script, including guidelines for updating the `README` with features, samples, and documentation links while preserving certain sections unchanged.

```ts
defFileOutput("README.md")
```

Finally, we specify that the output of this script will be an updated `README.md` file.

## How to Run the Script

To execute this maintenance script, you'll need the GenAIScript CLI. If you haven't installed it yet, head over to the [official documentation](https://microsoft.github.io/genaiscript/) for installation instructions. Once you have the CLI ready, run the following command in your terminal:

```shell
genaiscript run readme-updater
```

This command will kick off the script and apply the enhancements to your `README` file, ensuring it's up-to-date and user-friendly.

## Conclusion

A meticulous `README` is a hallmark of a well-maintained open source project. With this GenAIScript, the GenAI project sets an excellent example of automating the upkeep of project documentation. Embrace the power of automation to keep your project's welcome mat clean and welcoming. Happy coding! 👨‍💻👩‍💻
